A Levels Biology (9700)•9700/11/M/J/18

Explanation
Unsaturated lipids feature double bonds in fatty acid chains
Steps:
- Recall lipid structure: triglycerides consist of glycerol backbone ester-linked to three fatty acid chains.
- Define unsaturation: double bonds (C=C) occur in hydrocarbon chains, reducing saturation.
- Identify location: double bonds form between carbon atoms within fatty acid tails, not in the glycerol or linkages.
- Confirm: saturated lipids lack these bonds; unsaturated ones (e.g., oils) have them only in fatty acids.
Why B is correct:
- Unsaturated fatty acids contain one or more C=C double bonds within their carbon chains, as per organic chemistry definitions of alkene functional groups.
Why the others are wrong:
- A: Linkages between fatty acids and glycerol are single covalent ester bonds, with no double bonds.
- C: Glycerol is a saturated three-carbon polyol with only single bonds.
- D: Glycerol lacks double bonds, so inclusion is inaccurate.
Final answer: B
Topic: Carbohydrates and lipids
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